YAY MISHE'A TARPLEY! Mishe'a Tarpley, an art teacher at Varina High School, is today's Yay of the Day honoree! Superintendent Amy Cashwell honored her recently!

YAYWORTHY:

Nominator Shanna Crawford said,

"Entering just her third year as an art teacher at Varina High School, Ms. Tarpley has already built deep, lasting relationships with her art students and made an unforgettable impact on the entire school community. Her dedication extends far beyond the classroom studio. Ms. Tarpley constantly steps up to support our Blue Devils in every capacity possible — serving as the 9th and 10th Grade SCA Sponsor, Assistant Varsity Girls Soccer Coach, Ninth Grade Orientation Teacher, and currently taking on the leadership role of PBIS Chair for this school year. Her unwavering enthusiasm, mentorship and work ethic haven't gone unnoticed. She was recently selected as the "Heart of Varina" for the 2025–26 school year by her supportive colleagues and Principal, Mrs. Sears. Ms. Tarpley is a shining example of excellence, care and community spirit, perfectly capturing what it truly means to be a Varina Blue Devil!

"A standout example of Ms. Tarpley’s dedication took place over the 2026 summer. She generously volunteered her time to support Henrico County Public Schools' Department of Family and Community Engagement (FACE), bringing joy to families across the district by face painting during the Summer Engagement Tour. Beyond her work with FACE, she also rallied Varina students to help her repaint the dugout for the V.H.S. baseball team, taking pride in beautifying the campus. Whenever called upon, Ms. Tarpley always answers the call with enthusiasm, generosity and true Blue Devil spirit."

Thank you for all you do, Mishe'a, to make a positive difference and move HCPS forward!

• No. 14 in a series. Nominate a staff member for a "Yay of the Day" at https://www.henricoschools.us/yay-of-the-day.